The next installment of the Grand Theft Auto series has been teasing gamers for months now, with storyline rumours and release date speculation coming thick and fast.

It’s hard to believe, but that frustratingly vague trailer for GTA 5 was released in 2011. And yet, we are still as much in the dark now as we were then.

There’s no doubt that GTA 5 is on the way, but after whetting our appetites all those months ago you’d think that Take-Two would have given us something more by now.

We are still waiting, but if Take-Two’s financial performance of late is anything to go by, they’ll be wanting to see GTA 5 in the shops sooner rather than later.

Financial need for GTA 5

The gaming giant will want to see GTA 5 released more than most gamers out there, as the title is sure to be big-sales banker around the world.

Take-Two made a loss in the last financial quarter, which has been put down to a couple of less-than-satisfactory title launches and development costs for GTA 5.

The likes of Max Payne 3 and Spec Ops: The Line are thought to have contributed to a loss totalling a whopping $10.8 million, so GTA 5 can’t come soon enough.

A rushed release for GTA 5?

While gamers may see this as good news, there is a concern that Take-Two might want to cut some corners to get GTA 5 to market as quickly as possible.

Some analysts believe Take-Two is in danger of putting all its eggs in one violent, car-stealing basket. Outspoken analyst Michael Pachter has said that GTA 5 needs to be released this year for Take-Two to reach expected revenue levels by April.

We’re not sure about a 2012 release for GTA 5, but with financial pressures looming there is a danger that Rockstar will be forced to take a hit on its reputation for the highest quality gaming experience.